End of an Era: Lionel Messi Plays Final Match for Argentina (3 Photos + 6 Videos)

Overnight, Lionel Messi brought his international career with Argentina to a close, pulling on the iconic shirt one last time in a clash against Benin. Messi marked his final appearance in style, scoring once and providing two assists. He hangs up his international boots as Argentina's all-time record holder for both caps (208) and goals (126).

"Right now, I'm thinking about my father… Wearing this shirt for twenty years was an incredible honor, even during the darkest times. I always gave everything I had. I would love to play forever, but I realize this chapter has come to an end. This summer, we came so close to a second World Cup. That game against England… it was something unbelievable. We fought as hard as we could.

I am so grateful for all these years. Wherever we played, the stadiums were packed. Every match felt like playing at home. I am going to miss this so much…

I feel like I've spoken longer today than ever before in my life—and that's because I really don't want to leave..." the legendary forward said in his emotional farewell speech.